Where exactly is the coolant temp sensor located on a 2000 F-150 4.6 V-8.

 

Should be sticking straight up off the left front of the intake manifold with a connector attached..

 

i am having a similar issue. i bought a coolant temp sensor because the guy at autozone informed me when that sensor goes bad, which the code is showing up, the vehicle will run similar to having a choke on. the truck is doing just that and my gas mileage is HORRIBLE. the computer shows the sensor is mounted on the top of the motor by head on the left side behind the alternator. all that is there is a steel plug blocking the port and no electrical connector in sight. is there an alternate location for this sensor or do some models not have them? the error reads "insufficient cooling system temp" but my thermostat keeps my gauge in the normal area saying the truck isnt running hot.

 

It should be close to the thermostat housing.

 

Eric, your in on some one elses thread with a first post.
Many models used the CHT, some use the coolant temp sensor.
If you have nothing in that spot, then it's the coolant temp sensor being used.
Yes, a faulty sensor or circuit from whichever location can have a huge effect on fuel mileage and also can detect a thermostat that is stuck open causing the same effect.
It also affects cold starts and hot restarts to varying degrees.

 

my apologies about the thread, just signed up, still learning the site. thanks for the info